When buying a home, you’re likely thinking of it as not only a shelter for your family but an investment. You may look at different aspects of your home and wonder what current features make the home valuable. Over time, you may consider making changes to your home to add even more value.
One way is through anAccessory Dwelling Unit(ADU). This type of home has emerged as a popular choice among builders due to the impact of recent years’ inventory shortages and lack of land space. This led builders to focus on building on smaller land parcels and smaller homes, requiring innovative solutions to maximize the space and increase housing density. You might think, “What is an accessory dwelling unit?” and “Will owning a home with one add value to my home?” In this article, we’ll explore what ADUs are, their benefits, and if they add value to a home.
An Accessory Dwelling Unit, as defined by the American Planning Association, is "a separate dwelling unit complete with kitchen, bathroom, and sleeping facilities that is an accessory to the primary residence on a single-family lot." They’re also known by many other names such as in-law suites, accessory apartments, and granny flats. ADUs can be new standalone accessory structures, additions to new or existing homes, converted portions of existing homes, or converted portions of existing standalone structures. They can be detached, such as a standalone structure in the backyard, or attached to the main house, such as a garage, basement, or attic apartment.
The benefits of ADUs extend beyond additional square footage that can be used for overnight guests, storage, home office, or whatever you need. Because they include everything needed for daily living, they have many uses and benefits that align with evolving housing needs and provide homeowners with options to accommodate changing family dynamics or generate rental income. Here are just a few benefits of having a home with anAccessory Dwelling Unit.
Whether for an aging family member or an adult child, these homes provide the space to adapt to an individual’s changing housing needs. Best of all, they allow equal opportunities for privacy and connection within families.
These units also offer environmental benefits by utilizing existing infrastructure and promoting sustainable living practices. This includes using less energy, water, and land space.
One of the most common reasons for owning a home with an ADU is the ability to earn passive, supplemental income. It’s especially nice for seniors who don’t want to move but can’t financially afford their home due to a change in income.
As mentioned, you may be contemplating if an ADU increases property value. Research suggests that ADUs can indeed increase home value, with estimates ranging from 25% to 34% based on location and property specifics. Factors such as quality construction, design cohesion with the primary residence, and local housing market conditions play crucial roles in determining the added value of an ADU.
At Craft Homes, we stand out as a builder committed to integrating Accessory Dwelling Unit plansinto our new home communities. We currently offer anapartment above the garageand a casita suite option in two communities.
Laureate Park is the epitome of innovative, sustainable, and healthy living in the heart of Lake Nona in Orlando, FL. A range of floorplans are available, but you’ll find ourADU floor planswithin the Guild and Artisan Series. Each series includes one-of-a-kind home designs from the inside out. Ranging from 2,000 to 2,900+ square feet, the Guild Series plans include open layouts that blend style and functionality. You’ll find primary suites on the first or second floor, amazing outdoor living spaces, and ample storage. Our homes in Laureate Park have what you need, whether an entertainment hub, pocket office room, or large laundry room, plus, anAccessory Dwelling Unitto add value. In addition, you’ll find amazing resort-style amenities, playgrounds, parks, and more right outside the door.
Situated in St. Cloud, Florida, Weslyn Park features the Frontier Series, which showcases modern amenities and flexible living arrangements, including ADUs. This vibrant community combines the thrill of adventure with a deep connection to nature. The floorplans offer plenty of room, ranging from 1,700 to 1,900+ square feet. Not only can you enjoy an apartment above the garage or casita suite, ideal for accommodating extended family or generating rental income, but there are also options with spacious lofts, perfect for a second living room or versatile gathering area. Weslyn Park in Sunbridge features exciting amenities including miles of trails, a zero-entry pool, playgrounds, a community garden, and more.
